Exclusive: Accor signs new Byron Bay resort

A new $100 million world class beachfront resort is taking shape on Belongil Beach in Byron Bay.

The resort named “Elements of Byron” is being constructed on a site that encompasses rainforest, lakes and two kilometres of absolute beach frontage. Approval is for 193 individual one and two bedroom villas of which 94 villas, along with the central resort and leisure facilities, are due for completion by Christmas 2015.

Private owner, Peggy Flannery is personally involved in all design aspects of the resort to ensure it is sympathetic to the site. She surprised many with her decision to work with a 1987 “beach shack” style approval over the site rather than a far more recent development approval eventually granted to former land owners Becton.

“The 1987 Byron Beach Resort approval and design was reflective of our vision for small single-storey cabins dotted through the landscape and is a more appropriate design response for the site,” said Development Director Jeremy Holmes. “The villas sit lightly on the land, are low scale and in keeping with the ethos we are striving toward”.

Upon arrival guests will be granted an unforgettable welcome past water and fire elements into the contoured main pavilion, with a curved roof symbolising the sand dunes along the beach frontage. Three separate pavilions make up the central resort and leisure facilities, boasting a signature restaurant and lobby bar, poolside bar and kiosk, gymnasium and five suite garden spa. Weaving throughout is a large lagoon pool, spa, numerous additional water features and sunken fire pit. Feminine, organic materials and forms have been employed to invoke relaxation and connection to the earth.

Elements of Byron will be well equipped to host the country’s most prestigious events, with state of the art conference facilities throughout the dedicated conference wing. Four flexible spaces will cater for up to 400 delegates separately or in one room, supported by adjacent break-out garden courtyards, poolside and beachfront locations offering views across the Bay to Cape Byron Lighthouse.

“This organisation has engaged with the community to bring them along on the journey,” said Byron Shire Mayor Simon Richardson.

“And at the same time they have looked at other ways to support the local community, such as the two carriage train which they are reinstating along our tracks. Byron will support good projects.”

Accor Hotel Group has signed an agreement with Elements of Byron under its boutique luxury brand – The MGallery Collection.

“This landmark, beachfront resort in Byron Bay will be a major boost for the NSW tourist economy,” said Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer Simon McGrath.

“We congratulate the owners on their amazing vision which is evident in the resort’s thoughtful design.”

The project is generating over 280 construction jobs and once operational, will be responsible for approximately 150 direct and indirect staff.